Central Asia is becoming an increasingly popular destination for expats from all over the world. In this article, we bring you 15 unique perspectives through interviews with ambassadors and foreigners who have made the region their home. From challenges to triumphs, their stories offer a glimpse into the lives of those adapting to a new culture and building their future in Central Asia.
Monika Iwersen, city — Astana, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Federal Republic of Germany to the Republic of Kazakhstan
I have lived in Astana for two and a half years and in Central Asia for six and a half years. What impressed me most about Central Asia is the people. They are open, kind and friendly. The hospitality they talk about is real. People try to help you, try to make you feel welcome.
The concept of family is another thing I like here. Family in Central Asia is important for a person, family members always help each other and support each other.
Read full article here.
Johannes Baur, city — Astana, Head of Cooperation Section of the EU Delegation to the Republic of Kazakhstan
I have been living in Astana for a year and a half. But I visited this city for the first time 15 years ago.
Central Asia is a region that people in Europe are not so familiar with. I studied in Moscow, where I also studied Central Asia, as I have always been interested in this region, its history, rich culture, and differences from other Asian countries. In Kazakhstan it is interesting to see the differences between the big cities like Astana and Almaty and the countryside.
Read full article here.
Lucas Blaustein, city — Astana, Agricultural Attaché, US Embassy in Kazakhstan
The first country I put on the list for my next mission was Kazakhstan. I don't know Russian and Kazakh too well, so I'm learning them now.
Before coming here, I did not know how much we have in common, including in agriculture. I have a small farm in West Virginia where I grow apples. I was very surprised to learn that Almaty is the Home of Apples. West Virginia is a mountain state, so it looks like Almaty. And my orchard is high in the mountains. It looks like what you might see in southern Kazakhstan, in the Fergana Valley of Uzbekistan, or in Kyrgyzstan.
Read full article here.
Marco Alberti, city — Astana, Ambassador of Italy to Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan
I have visited four Central Asian countries: Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and I am planning to visit Turkmenistan at the end of the year. In Kazakhstan, I have visited about 13 regions. My frequent destination is Almaty, as we have a big Italian community, many companies, and the Italian Cultural Institute which we opened last year.
Kazakhstan people are eager to know about you and your country, but also crave to tell about themselves, their traditions, their nomadic life and stories, and what they do for a living. It was an interesting revelation because Italians do not usually aspire to talk about themselves. It helped me feel even more at home here.
Read full article here.
Irina Mangule, city — Astana, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Latvia to the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Kyrgyz Republic
I have been in Astana since January 2021 — over three and a half years. During this time, the capital has changed its name twice. The city is literally growing. From my window, I can see buildings rising where once there was steppe.
Due to my role, I frequently travel across Central Asia. The most challenging aspect for me is the vast distances, which often require flying. I often visit Almaty and enjoy it there. The nature and mountains are wonderful.
Read full article here.
Chris Andrew, city — Tashkent, Minnesota Soybean Organization in-country representative
Uzbeks are very friendly and remind me of the welcoming attitude of the Thais, which makes Uzbekistan similar to Burma in the 1990s, just starting with tourism but with great potential. The local hospitality, especially from taxi drivers who often refuse payment from foreigners, is unique to Uzbekistan.
I have traveled extensively in Uzbekistan and enjoy many places. I like the main tourist sites such as Khiva, Bukhara, and Samarkand, where I often take visitors. I also appreciate the Fergana Valley, which is largely untouched by tourism and has great agricultural potential.
Read full article here.
Komiya Shimon, city — Astana, Attaché of the Department of Economy and Economic Cooperation
I’ve been living in Kazakhstan for almost a year and a half. I arrived at midnight. On the way from the airport to the hotel, the streets were empty, and there were hardly any cars. We passed Bayterek and the ministry buildings — everything looked futuristic. I had a slightly different idea of Kazakhstan, but when I arrived in Astana, I was pleasantly surprised.
In Astana, there is a café called Momo, where they serve authentic homemade Japanese food, the kind that moms typically make at home. Many people think Japanese cuisine is expensive and imagine sushi, but in reality, making authentic Japanese food isn’t that difficult, and it’s much cheaper.
Read full article here.
Belle Dorhout Mees, city — Almaty Business Development Manager
Kazakhstan has surprised me in many ways. Arriving with little prior knowledge, I was amazed by the spectacular varieties of landscapes. Someone mentioned that the Almaty region is believed to be the Garden of Eden because it is the birthplace of apples. I found that amusing; the idea that a country with a history of Tengri and Islamic traditions could be tied to the Christian conception of humanity’s origins is surprising. However, when looking at the scenery, I wouldn’t be surprised at all!
Read full article here.
Peter Frankopan, historian, writer, professor of Global History at Oxford University, Linkedin
Central Asia has historically been a cradle of civilization, home to great cities where people developed advanced sciences, wrote poetry, and explored new ideas. The region served as a cultural and commercial hub, linking Europe, China, and India.
Kazakhstan is one of the largest countries in the world, rich in natural resources like oil, uranium, and rare earth elements — all of which are critical for the 21st century. One pressing issue for Kazakhstan’s future is achieving self-sufficiency and security.
Read full article here.
Dennis Ruiter, city — Almaty, entrepreneur, linkedin
Kazakhstan surprised me in many ways! The biggest surprise is the people. I’ve always felt welcome here — the warmth, openness, and friendliness of Kazakh people are unmatched. Their strong family bonds are inspiring, and perhaps that’s why I fell in love with one and remain deeply in love.
I’ve also experienced Nauryz celebrations and the tradition of giving speeches — everywhere, anytime, and for any occasion! That was new for me, but now I’ve mastered the art of speaking like a Kazakh.
Read full article here.
Aleška Simkić, city — Astana, EU Ambassador to Kazakhstan, @euinkazakhstan
I first visited Almaty 15 years ago but spent only two days there, with little time to explore. My only memory was a statue of The Beatles in a park. Recently, I participated in the Almaty Marathon, running 10 kilometers and enjoying the beautiful mountains that reminded me of Slovenia, which I miss dearly.
I was also fortunate to visit Bayanaul National Park upon arriving in Kazakhstan, and its beauty left a lasting impression.
Read full article here.
Brandon Peart, city — Astana, Deputy Official Representative of the U.S. Mission in Kazakhstan
Astana is an ultra-modern city, and it’s a comfortable place to live. The people are kind and friendly. I have two young children, and I am particularly impressed by how much Kazakhstani people value raising their children and invest in their future.
Nature is another aspect that draws us to Kazakhstan. We are from Utah, a state known for its stunning landscapes and wide-open spaces. When I saw photos of Kazakhstan’s natural scenery, it reminded me of home.
Read full article here.
Brian McKenzie, city — Bishkek, Digital Nomad, @ bizzkek
Living in Kyrgyzstan as a digital nomad has been a rewarding experience, and I’m excited to see how the country embraces this growing trend. The combination of stunning landscapes, welcoming people, and the ability to work remotely makes Kyrgyzstan an ideal destination for digital nomads. If the government continues to refine the visa process, Kyrgyzstan could become a major hub for remote workers in the region.
For now, I’m grateful to call this beautiful country home and look forward to helping others experience the same sense of belonging that I’ve found here.
Read full article here.
Ewa Polano, Astana — Ambassador of the Kingdom of Sweden to the Republic of Kazakhstan, @ewa_polano
I am fortunate because I arrived during a time when Kazakhstan and Central Asia have gained strategic importance. The geopolitical situation in the region, particularly in Kazakhstan, has changed significantly, and the country now plays an even greater role. From a political perspective, I find it incredibly fascinating here.
I enjoy being here. I am learning a lot and exploring this new country with great pleasure. What especially amazes me is the generosity and hospitality of Kazakh people — their friendliness, kindness, and constant smiles.
Read full article here.
Kathy Leach, city — Astana, British Ambassador to the Republic of Kazakhstan, @ukinkz
Kazakhs and Brits are somewhat alike. We are polite, reserved, and kind. Therefore, from a cultural perspective, I feel comfortable here. I love Kazakh music, especially the dombra. I also enjoy the work of Dimash Kudaibergen.
What strikes British people the most about Kazakhstan is its scale. Kazakhstan is ten times larger than the UK, and the landscapes here are extraordinary.
Read full article here.
